I was deeply saddened to learn of the damage and devastation caused by the earthquake that hit central Italy last night.

The earthquake has taken many lives. Rescue crews are digging through the debris of fallen buildings, looking for survivors of this catastrophe.

As a country with strong ties with Italy, Canada is well placed to help with financial support to the rescue efforts and helping provide safe refuge to those who lost their homes in the earthquake.

I send my condolences to the victims of this catastrophe. My thoughts are particularly with the members of the Italian-Canadian community here in Ottawa who anxiously monitor the search for survivors.

Sincerely,

Paul Dewar, MP
Ottawa Centre